New head of UN mission vows open cooperation with all communities in Kosovo

The new head of the United Nations mission in Kosovo today met with leaders of the province and underlined the importance of collaboration to combat inter-ethnic violence, pledging his intention to openly cooperate with all communities.

"I told the leaders that I would be completely transparent in my work. That means that my programme is available, where I go here in Kosovo, who I am going to meet. My programme will be available to you and to the public," Harri Holkeri, the new head of UN Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK), said during his first briefing to reporters.

Mr. Holkeri stressed, however, that being open does not mean he will be influenced by other people's agendas or criticism. "I am responsible to the UN Security Council and the Secretary-General. I do not want to be co-governed by others," he stated.

Asked by a reporter to elaborate on what he meant by co-governance, Mr. Holkeri said: "My mandate comes from the Security Council resolution and I am going to work on that. That is my guidance. Whatever is said elsewhere, the guidance comes from that resolution, in line with the framework document. That's my only alternative."

He cited the need to strengthen rule of law and enhance fight against organized crime, terrorism or extremist activities as one of the key issues for Kosovo.

"Further development of democratic and multi-ethnic judiciary, police and Provisional Institutions is a priority," he added. "We will work to promote multi-ethnicity, dialogue and integration."

In addition he promised "to bring Kosovo closer to international and European standards" and to promote economic development and a free-market economy.